Brakes of Old

[MPittma100]

[MPittma100]

Brakes of Old

This "stuff" (above picture) was in the front master cylinder of my 1981H. Upper right in picture is crud that was in the M/C bore. The plunger was much dirtier, but I had to clean it to determine how the new seal went on. Bike has 26K miles and 30+ years in and out of service. There was similar material in both front calipers. Front brakes are original. Most bike manufacturers recommend changing/flushing brake fluid every 2 years. I believe this to be a good idea from what I see in this example.

My guess is that if you have an old XS11 that you have not done the brakes on, you are likely to find exactly what you see here in your ride. Not good! Now is a good time to check yours.

Mike

[natemoen]

Yup, brakes MUST be gone through on any new to you bike (except brand new I guess) before it goes on the road.

[MarkD]

I feel very lucky. When I got my XS in April, I redid the front brakes, (as they were a little sticky in front) maintenance included: tear the calipers down, separate with air compressor, put new fluid in, etc.) and had no 'spooge', minimal pitting, and pads that were in good shape. From all the stuff I'm reading about timing chain tensioners, shims, brakes, and all the other stuff, I guess I got a winner. I did have a few carb issues, and some fuse panel stuff, but I am good to go. Brakes are great.

[IanDMacDonald]

Mike- Thanks for posting this. I have a front and rear master cylinder rebuild kit from my 750 that I'll be using on the 1100 over the Winter. So many projects to do, so little money, lol.

[skids]

Do you think that that blob of fuzzy-looking stuff is from the hose lining? It might be a good thing to replace the hoses while you're at it.

[MtMark1100]

Thanks mike

Thanks for your post

[fredintoon]

This "stuff" (above picture) was in the front master cylinder of my 1981H. - - - Most bike manufacturers recommend changing/flushing brake fluid every 2 years. I believe this to be a good idea from what I see in this example. - - -

Hi Mike,
the fluid change is mostly because DOT3 & DOT4 brake fluid absorbs water over time and you notice how rusty those brake parts are?
The black crud is most likely debris from the brake hoses, now is a good time to move up to stainless wire braided ones.

[MPittma100]

Old Brakes

It's hard to say what the crud actually is. Yes, it could be from the hoses. I am wondering who has the best, easiest to install replacements.

Mike

[MPittma100]

Old Brakes/Bearings

I noticed that replacement front wheel bearings are sealed bearings. On the bike itself the right side bearing outer seal was not there upon disassembly. Does anyone know if this intentional?

Thanks, MP

[bikerphil]

Mike, usually the inner cover are the ones that are missing, so it most likely either fell off, or the PO took it off so he could grease the bearing easily. If your new replacement bearings have the plastic covers, one side can be easily popped off with a jewelers screwdriver to add a bit more grease and then reinstalled. When I recently replaced mine, I added some marine grease to the small amount of grease that came with the bearing.

[jetmechmarty]

New brake lines are available at XJBikes.com. The chatter on here says they're ready to go.

[MPittma100]

Bearings

Mike, usually the inner cover are the ones that are missing, so it most likely either fell off, or the PO took it off so he could grease the bearing easily. If your new replacement bearings have the plastic covers, one side can be easily popped off with a jewelers screwdriver to add a bit more grease and then reinstalled. When I recently replaced mine, I added some marine grease to the small amount of grease that came with the bearing.

Thanks Phil, I have some new ones coming. will take a look at them to see if they have enough grease.

[MPittma100]

Brake Lines

New brake lines are available at XJBikes.com. The chatter on here says they're ready to go.

Hi Marty,

Thanks, I will contact them and let you know.

MP

[MPittma100]

Brake Lines

New brake lines are available at XJBikes.com. The chatter on here says they're ready to go.

Hi Marty,

Got the brake lines coming from XJ4ever.com (XJBikes.com). Ordered this morning and were shipped out USPS Priority today. Opted for the rubber rather than SS. Staying with the OEM look.

Getting all three for front and both for rear plus new copper washers. Total for all including shipping and 8% GA sales tax was $243.00. Lot of money for rubber brake lines, but I believe this to be a wise investment.

Should be in hand by middle of next week. Will post some pictures of the procedure.

Mike